Académique Documents
Professionnel Documents
Culture Documents
Present
Gry Andersen, Vincent Gallicchio, Lena Morgan, Tom Stowe, Janna Malseed
2. Prepare for IFBLS meetings, and Council duties, and IFBLS activities during congress.
Plans were made and discussed.
3. Internet charges for Council members were discussed and agreed IFBLS will cover the cost of
charges for IFBLS staff.
4. Other topics
Present: Gry Andersen, Vince Gallicchio, Lena Morgan, Eddie Ang, Tom Stowe, Janna Malseed,
Moses Lorre from AKMLSO and Eyal Halevy from Paragon to Item 4.
Absent: Manindra Chaudhuri, Chuan-Liang Kao, Kyoko Komatsu
1. The Management Committee discussed the current situation and the work during the Congress.
2. Procedure manual was revised. The amendments are according to the discussions in November
2009 and February 2010. Janna to send revised document to Council.
3. Finances - Gry presented and explained the financial position up to May 2010 and the prognosis for
the rest of the year.
4. Information from congress organiser – Moses Lorre updated the Council members on the most
recent issues being dealt with for the Congress. He advised there is an estimated 400 – 500
delegates and that will be confirmed with the PCO. The contract details were discussed and it was
emphasized that if the budget issues were not resolved, IFBLS is put in serious financial jeopardy.
Paragon (PCO) confirmed they will do everything that needs to be done to make this Congress a
success.
5. Congress and IFBLS meetings – most of the meeting time was used to prepare for meetings and
discussions (documents, presentations and tasks).
6. Future Congresses – Council agreed that it is important to identify the issues from the two previous
Congresses and prepare a list of questions for Future Congress bidders.
Present: Gry Andersen, Vince Gallicchio, Lena Morgan, Eddie Ang, Tom Stowe, Manindra Chaudhuri,
Chuan_Liang Kao, Kyoko Komatsu, Janna Malseed
Absent:
6. Future Congresses – Council agreed that it is important to identify the issues from the two previous
Congresses and prepare a list of questions for Future Congress bidders. Eddie Ang presented the
bid for 2012 Congress in Singapore and responded to all the questions.
7. The request for IFBLS Endorsement for Biopharma World in Singapore (A Large Scale Event in Asia)
was reviewed and decided that this event was of no interest to IFBLS.
The remainder of the meeting was spent preparing for Congress (documents, presentations and tasks)
• Opening of the meeting -President Gry Andersen welcomed every one and hoped for
good discussions and explained the itinerary for the meeting.
• Introduction of candidates for election – Nominee for President Elect was Ms. Kyoko
Komatsu – Japan. Nominees for Council were Mr. Eddie Han San Ang from Singapore, Mr.
Patrick Joseph Chattad from Cameroon, Mr. Manindra Chauduri from India, Mr. Chuan
-Liang Kao from Taiwan, Mr. Tom Stowe from Canada, Ms. Mirjana Stupnisek from Croatia
and Mr. Dionysis Vourtsis from Greece. Gry Andersen informed the meeting that Mr. James
Sakwa had withdrawn as a canadidate for IFBLS Council.
• Council’s report – Tom Stowe presented a Power Point presentation with the highlights of
what the Council had done during the last two years. The biannual report had been sent out
to the members in advance.
• International BLS Day 2011-2012 – Manindra Chaudhuri presented the theme for
International BLS Day – The Role of Biomedical Laboratory Scientists in the Global
Management of Communicable Diseases.
• Presentation of finances -Gry Andersen presented the financial status up to May 15, 2010
and the budget for 2011 and 2012. IFBLS receives financial support from some member
organisations that pay for hotel and travel for their representative on the Board. Other
member associations have sponsored meetings for WHO and also paid for all
expenses when IFBLS Council members have been invited to meetings.
• 30th IFBLS World Congresses – IFBLS invited member associations that were interested in
arranging World Congress in 2012 to make a presentation. Delegates heard presentations
from Eddie Ang – Singapore, Annette Artelt – Germany and Dionysis Vourtsis – Greece.
• Future World Congresses 2016 – IFBLS asked if any member associations were
interested in arranging World Congress in 2016 – none received.
• Preliminary Group Reports were made in plenary. The reports are presented in the GAD
minutes.
4
Recommendations from 2008 GAD
6
IFBLS Council Progress
• Koyoko Komatsu and JAMT have
produced an interactive e-learning module
in Cytology, Hematology, Urinalysis
– Future disciplines will be developed
• Professor Chuan-Liang Kao and the TSLM
Association have developed the IFBLS e-
journal. Professor Kao is the editor in
chief
7
IFBLS Council Progress
• Lena Morgan, Marie Nora Roald,
members of the Expert Group and Gry
Andersen have prepared a policy
document on Point of Care Testing
– Document will be presented at the GAD
• IFBLS has been active recruiting new
members: Greece, Chad and reinstating
previous members: the United Kingdom
– This is an ongoing process and we are in
8
contact with other countries
IFBLS Council Progress
• Finland and Norway have paid part or full
2009 membership fees for three countries:
– Sri Lanka, Ghana, Cameroon
– These three countries have all paid their own
fees for 2010
• IFBLS has signed NGO agreements with
CLSI and WHO
• The ethical guidelines have been revised
9
BLS Day 2011-2012
Theme
The Role of Biomedical Laboratory
Scientists in the Global Management of
Communicable Diseases
10
• The 22nd General Assembly of Delegates (GAD), Oslo
1996 adopted to institute a world-wide Biomedical
Laboratory Science Day. The purpose with the BLS Day
is to highlight specified health problems with the view of
our profession, and to promote the profession of
Biomedical Laboratory Scientists and their role as key
personnel within research, diagnosis and treatment of
patients.
The theme for the BLS is decided by IFBLS Council in
cooperation with WHO’s Millennium Goals, and the
theme is applied to marketing the day all over the world.
11
• Each Biomedical Scientist has a unique role in promoting
the professions importance within Health Care. A
Biomedical Scientist with confidence and engagement is
the best representative for the profession. You meet the
patients, their relatives and other health personnel in the
daily life. You are the best to tell what Biomedical
Scientists do and what importance you have in diagnosis
and treatment of patients. That is why it is important to
participate in the celebration of the BLS Day at your
workplace, even if the theme for the day does not
correspond to what you actually do at your laboratory.
12
IFBLS Finances as of May 15, 2010
the autumn of 2009 and is included in the 2009 fiscal year; see Auditors report for
2009).
2Actual expenses will be lower once IFBLS receives reinbursement from the Congress.
13
2009 Auditor’s Report
• “We have audited the statement of financial
position of IFBLS as at December 31, 2008 and
the statements of revenues and expenditures,
changes in members’ equity and cash flows
for the year then ended. These financial
statements are the responsibility of the
company’s management. Our responsibility is
to express an opinion on these financial
statements based on our audit.”
14
2009 Auditor’s Report
• “In our opinion, these financial statements
present fairly, in all material respects, the
financial position of the company as at
December 31, 2008 and the results of its
operations and its cash flows for the year then
ended in accordance with Canadian generally
accepted accounting principles.”
15
2010 Auditor’s Report
• “We have audited the statement of financial
position of IFBLS as at December 31, 2009 and
the statements of revenues and expenditures,
changes in net assets and cash flows for the
year then ended. These financial statements
are the responsibility of the company’s
management. Our responsibility is to express
an opinion on these financial statements
based on our audit.”
16
2010 Auditor’s Report
• “In our opinion, these financial statements
present fairly, in all material respects, the
financial position of the company as at
December 31, 2009 and the results of its
operations and its cash flows for the year then
ended in accordance with Canadian generally
accepted accounting principles.”
17
IFBLS Silent Auction
18
IFBLS Silent Auction
y IFBLS founded in 1954 in Zurich with Medical Laboratory
Technologists from Europe and UK
y Good laboratory practices worldwide are promoted through
IFBLS in collaboration with the WHO, the Nordic Group,
the ASEAN Association of MLT, the Asian Association of
Medical Laboratory Scientists and the Federation of East
African Associations of Medical Laboratory Sciences.
19
IFBLS Silent Auction
y To sustain and to continue to fulfill aims of IFBLS, additional
financial support is needed.
y Membership subscriptions as well as revenue from
Congresses alone are insufficient to manage an office and
fund activities.
y Member countries have provided donations for the Silent
Auction.
y Items will be located at the IFBLS booth
20
IFBLS Silent Auction
y Bidding sheets will be attached to each item.
y You will sign your name and place your bid for the item of
your choice on the bidding sheet
y You can place as many bids as you wish
y The highest bidder will win the article
y Bidding will stop on Wednesday, June 9th at 2:00 pm
y The highest bidder will be announced at GAD June 10th
21
Future collaboration with WHO
22
L.Morgan 2010 June 6th
Main function of WHO
23
L.Morgan 2010 June 6th
Examples of objectives that are in
harmony IFBLS-WHO
24
L.Morgan 2010 June 6th
Examples of objectives that are in
harmony IFBLS-WHO, cont’d
25
L.Morgan 2010 June 6th
Relation
{ IFBLS have and official relation to
WHO, and we are allowed to
participate in the WHA meetings,
making intervetion but not voting
{ IFBLS have relations with the
designated technical officer in WHO
{ A slumbering contact with
Laboratory twinning projects in
Lyon.
26
L.Morgan 2010 June 6th
WHO objectives supported by
IFBLS
{ Promoting development
{ Fostering health security
{ Strengthen health systems
{ Harnessing research, information
and evidence
{ Enhancing partnerships
{ Improving performance
27
L.Morgan 2010 June 6th
Proposed collaboration issues
28
L.Morgan 2010 June 6th
Workshop questions
29
L.Morgan 2010 June 6th
Open Forum of e- Journal
(Chuan-Liang Kao)
Questions:
30
Survey Core Curriculum
31
1. Select your Region
1 Africa
2 Asia
3 Europe
4 North-America
5 Oceania
6 South-America
Current 27
1 Bachelor
2 Masters
3 PhD
4 Others, specify
Current 27
2 30-35
3 36-41
4 >41
5 Other, specify
Current 26
1 <30
2 30-35
3 36-41
4 >41
5 Other, specify
Current 26
1 Chemistry
2 Physics
3 Mathematics
4 Statistics
5 Anatomy and
physiology
6 Others, specify
Chemistry 25
Physics 22
Mathematics 22
Statistics 24
Others, specify 14
2 Systems of
Information
3 Economy &
Management
4 Public health
5 Ethics
6 Others, specify
Systems of Information 21
Public health 22
Ethics 22
Others, specify 12
38
Study structure
39
Further work
40
Proposal for definition of Core
Compentencies
41
Questions for the discussion
42
2. Are the categories/disciplines are the
categories/disciplines stated in the survey
sufficient and representative such as the
number of content hours needed or clinical
practicum for any curriculum?
43
3. What are the expectations from the
delegates regarding the information from
the survey?
44
International Federation of Biomedical Laboratory Science
Present: Chief Delegates from Cameroon, Canada, Chile, Croatia, Denmark, Finland, Germany,
Ghana, Greece, Hong Kong, Iceland, India (AIIMT), Ireland, Japan, Kenya, Nigeria, Norway,
Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Taiwan (TAMT), Taiwan (TSML), Uganda, United
States.
Gry Andersen, President of IFBLS opened the meeting and welcomed the Chief Delegates.
Vince Gallicchio asked the Chief Delegates to introduce themselves and name their country.
Ellen Libby-USA suggested there should be contact with ASCPi to discuss their membership and
credentials
Patrick Joseph Chattad-Cameroon stated with the Congress being in Africa, this should bring in a
lot of members from Africa. IFBLS will be invited to attend an African Congress in 2011
Marie Culliton-Ireland It is hard to have a common goal at the same time. IFBLS needs to work in
a regional manner. It is important to share information from region to region. An example is POCT.
It works in certain areas and not in others.
Gry Andersen responded that it is very important to have one voice globally. Information often
stops at the respective Board meetings and does not get to the member.
Ellen Libby asked when a member country joins do they commit to a contract to participate. Gry
advised there is no contract however there is a commitment to send all information from IFBLS to
their membership. Ellen agreed to speak to someone at the US organization about sharing
Samanathan Ratanam: Malaysia asked what is the role of the individual member? Individual
members must get support from national associations. Vince Gallicchio gave the definition of an
individual member. Gry Anderson stated that it is controversial that individual members can run for
election and suggested that if a member submitted a resolution to change the by-laws it will be
discussed at the next Congress.
Britt Valaas Viddal-Norway At every Board meeting they have in Norway, they discuss international
topics. They also write about IFBLS in their journal.
Clement Opoku-Okrah-Ghana It is very difficult to pursue the goals of IFBLS because employers
present obstacles. Gry Anderson responded that if you have a publication in Ghana along with
newsletters from IFBLS, this would benefit members with their employers. The Chief Delegates
present agreed a quarterly IFBLS newsletter would help to explain the benefits of the profession to
their employers. Vince Gallicchio stated that the topic of language was raised in the Membership
Workshop as a concern. The group suggested newsletters, ejournal and other publications should
be in other languages. Gry Andersen feels it could be very expensive but Council should look into
this if that’s what the CD’s want. IFBLS will continue to make information available but we need to
know what the issues are so that we can devise strategies.
The Chief Delegates agreed that IFBLS should work closely with different regional organizations
(FAAMLS, EPBS) to set up a MOU with them. Marie Culliton requested that the logo for EPBS be
included in our POCT document.
Information to Membership – It was stressed to the CD’s the importance of forwarding IFBLS
information to their membership. It was also suggested to send target emails regarding e-learning,
get other associations involved by linking their website to the IFBLS website in the member’s only
area, make e-learning available at conferences and to also use the Student Forum.
Core Curriculum – The document we have now is a good benchmark but we need more replies
than the 27 we have. It was recommended that we use what we have to more forward by Christine
Neilson – Canada.
WHO – Recommendation for the number of BLS per capita was discussed. Many delegates
suggested the number of BLS per capita was important however the number of BLS per specialty is
more important. A questionnaire on this issue was prepared and a pilot program with 5 countries
was initiated. The WHO should be invited to a meeting to discuss standardisation with work shops
on accreditation and recommendations on core curriculum.
E-Journal – Discussion took place on how to promote submitted articles. It was recommended the
e-Journal be put on member country websites and that it could be used by members who do not
have a regular publication. There was a lot of discussion on the quality of the journal and that we
need more articles to be submitted.
Task Force – President Gry Andersen made a presentation that reviewed the number of BLS in
relation to population and to look at the number of BLS in each specialty. This topic needs to be
addressed globally and requested help from the CD’s to work on this Task Force. A report should
be completed for 2012. Mary Culliton (Ireland) agreed that this is an important issue and will take it
to EPBS. Manason Rubainu (Nigeria) stated that this is a very good project. IFBLS should have
standards so we all walk on the same page. Gry Andersen responded that there is a very good
prognosis for the future of the profession. There was a lot of discussion on the topic of a clear
definition of a BLS and how it varies from country to country and this is an issue that should be
addressed by the Task Force.
Gry also requested the Chief Delegates present to recommend people from their association to
work on this Task Force.
Vince Gallicchio closed the meeting stating this topic continues to generate discussion and thanks
the delegates for their active participation.
CAMELS is determined to consolidate the successes of the outgoing council as well as persue the
implementation of professional regulatory issues as iso assessment , quality control and
assurance, proficiency test and management. CAMELS is inviting interested partners to assist her.
CAMELS is also determined to promote IFBLS activities in Cameroon.
Certification
At the entry level, we are consistently certifying over 500 General MLTs, 40 Diagnostic
Cytologists and 20 Clinical Genetics Technologists annually. There is very low interest in the
advance registered technologist (ART) certification, and we will consider alternatives in 2011.
We recently completed a study of the economic need for bridging (upgrade) training for
internationally educated MLTs. We find that if the government was to invest in the training
(including clinical placements) for all international technologists, and fund the programs, the
technologist would start working years earlier, paying higher taxing thus benefitting the
government. We are going to use this report to advocate for more programs, with better capacity
across Canada.
We are just starting our first multi-profession research project funded by the Government of
Canada. We are asking the question, “Five years post-certification/licensure, are internationally
trained health professionals integrating well into the Canadian workplace?” Most research focuses
on the process of coming to Canada, providing good information sources, review of the licensure
process etc, but little work has been done to date on the integration piece. This research project will
last two years, cost over $300,000 and involve pharmacy, medical radiation technologists,
occupational therapists, physiotherapists and CSMLS.
Introduction:
The Danish Association of Biomedical Laboratory Scientists (dbio) is a trade union for laboratory
scientists working in Denmark. The mission of the organization is “to take care of the members
At dbio there is currently a strong focus and interest on the development within biomedicine and
biotechnology, and on how the changes will influence the profession, and the patients of the future.
At the same time a historic reorganization of the health care system is taking place in Denmark.
Previously the work at the Danish hospitals was organized according to the medical specialties.
This has resulted in laboratories that most of all has identified their main tasks to be providing
services to the clinical departments. This led to a principal of organization of the work based on the
perspective of the employees at either the laboratory, or the clinical departments. The result has
been that the perspective of the patient got lost. The organizational problems that the system
developed, has led to a strong political pressure from all the Danish parties in the parliament, in
order to reorganize the health care system by taking point of departure in the treatment of the
patient.
Most of the current initiatives in dbio are influenced by the technological and scientific
developments within biomedical laboratory science, and the organizational changes taking place in
the Danish health care system.
In 2009 the project rapport “The Professional Identity of Biomedical Laboratory Scientists” was
published. The rapport is based on an ethnographic study at laboratories within all the main
specialties of biomedical laboratory science. The rapport has provided a better understanding of
the identity of biomedical laboratory scientists, the work culture, and the strengths and weaknesses
of the profession.
scientists to use all their competencies regarding pre-analysis, analysis and post-analysis.
Furthermore, skills that enable interdisciplinary work and dialogue will be demanded to a higher
extend than previously. In the first phase of the project, the main focus will be on how dbio can
support the leading biomedical laboratory scientists in taking a lead in these changes. Later, the
focus will be on the role of the shop stewards, biomedical laboratory scientists at the laboratories,
and the teaching staff in the university colleges.
In-service training
In order to enable biomedical laboratory scientists to develop their professional competencies
during the progress of scientific and technological development, dbio offers courses in all fields of
biomedical laboratory science.
Ethical Universe
Working with forefront technology and science, biomedical laboratory scientists daily faces new
dilemmas with no clear cut answers. In order to support the members of dbio in handling ethical
dilemmas, dbio has had an increased focus and discussion of ethical dilemmas the past years. The
discussions led to a critique of the ethical guidelines, since guidelines are too rigid to follow the
technological developments. Instead an ethical tool “The Ethical Universe” which purpose is to
create reflexivity, has been developed. The tool, consist of a hands on guide to how ethical
dilemmas can be discussed and handled at the laboratory. The Ethical Universe is furthermore
successfully used at the University Colleges in the education of coming biomedical laboratory
scientists.
commission has recently underscored how the Danish labor market not only is extremely gender
segregated with women working primarily in the public sector, and men working in the private
sector. In the statistics it is illustrated that women is lacking far behind in pay compared to the male
dominated professions in the private sector. Together with other trade unions, dbio is working to
make this inequality visible at the political level and in the public. Hopefully professions dominated
by women such as biomedical laboratory science, will in the near by future be able to get equal pay
for equal work.
NML- Conferences
On a final happy note it can be mentioned that dbio on September 13th to 15th in 2011, is honored to
be hosting the NML congress. The theme will be: Biomedical Laboratory Science: “The Wondrous
Profession”. The program will soon be available at www.dbio.dk
The IFBLS Council kindly requests the Chief Delegates to prepare a short report (maximum 2
pages)
on the following topics:
31.12.2008: Total number of members was 4372 and the number of student members was 509.
31.12.2009: Total number of members was 4319 and the number of student members was 505.
26.5.2010: Total number of members was 4563 and the number of student members 532.
The power point presentation on PAPA-test (sampling). Local associations have had different kinds
of presentations and events (lectures, visits). The Association of Biomedical Laboratory Scientists
has also had press releases.
3. Key topics that your association has been working on since GAD 2008 or CD meeting
2009
a. Education: Changes in the organization of education both in bachelor`s and master`s degree.
b. Changes in the tasks of biomedical laboratory scientists (BLS): their tasks have been transferred
to other health care professionals and vice versa.
In Finland we have official statistics on the number of employed BLS working in the municipal
sector, but not in private sector.
Does your country make trend analysis on the demand for BLSs?
Trend analysis is made by the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health, National Institute for Health
and Welfare, Tehy (The Union of Health and Social Care Professionals) etc.
Does your country report the number of BLS’s to the World Health Organisation official
statistics (such as the report “Working together for health”
http://www.who.int/whr/2006/en/ index.html )? If no, has your association taken action
to get the official statistics to include BLS’s?
Yes, the state authorities (Valvira, National Supervisory Authority for Welfare and Health).
Are there national recommendations on the number of BLS students? If yes, please
provide the number.
Does your country have recruitment plans for BLS students? If yes, what kind of
plans?
The Universities of Applied Sciences have their own recuitment plans. The Association of
Biomedical Laboratory Scientists is also working for recruitment. Every employer has their own
strategy for recruitment.
Does your country have recommendations for the number of BLS’s in the medical
laboratories? If yes, are there differences between the specialities?
No
Other
About 50 % of BLS are retiring by 2023.
The big changes in the organization of education both in universities and in universities of applied
sciences have required great effort from our association, likewise changes in organizations of
health care laboratories (centralization etc.)
REF: GABMS/NEC/IFBLS/2010
1 INTRODUCTION
Ghana is pleased to be represented again at the General Assembly of Delegates and to give a
short report to the IFBLS Council as requested in earlier correspondence.
2 INFORMATION
2.1 MEMBERSHIP
2.1.1 Registration
Currently, membership stands at 853 comprising 24 Fellow members, 240 Associate
members, 428 Affiliate members, 152 Student members, 6 Corporate members, and 4
Honorary members. The locations and places of work of most of our members can not be
traced. Some are have traveled outside the country and not contributing to the welfare of
the Association.
3 RECOMMENDATIONS/CONCLUSION
Ghana is appealing to the IFBLS, World Health Organization and other Health related
bodies to put pressure on our Government for the regulation of medical Laboratory
practice in Ghana.
3. Key topics that your association has been working on since GAD 2008 or CD meeting
2009
- Improving competency in microscopy particularly identification of intestinal parasites and malaria
-
4. “Biomedical Laboratory Scientists in the Work Force” in your country:
How many BLS are in the work force in your country?
To date, there are already approximately 56,000 registered Medical Technologists in the
country. However, based on the survey in 2007, there are approximately 8888 employed.
Does your country make trend analysis on the demand for BLSs?
For the past 3 years, we have shortage of Medical Technologists in the country. Yes, there is a
great demand in the hospitals, clinics and private practice.
Does your country report the number of BLS’s to the World Health Organisation official
statistics (such as the report “Working together for health”
http://www.who.int/whr/2006/en/ index.html )? If no, has your association taken action
to get the official statistics to include BLS’s?
We have WHO office in Manila wherein our Department of Health is in close coordination. The
organization will check about the submission of the official statistics. (Most likely submitted).
Are there national recommendations on the number of BLS students? If yes, please
provide the number.
The Philippines is currently suffering from shortage of employed Med Tech primarily because in the
past 3 yrs, there was a decreased in the number of students enrolled in BS Med Tech (Medical
Laboratory Science). In 2003, we have 18,649 students but as of 2008, it declined to 9034 only.
We developed advocacy plans and for now, we are slowly increasing the enrolment. There is no
national recommendation on the number of BLS students.
Does your country have recruitment plans for BLS students? If yes, what kind of
plans?
Yes, we adopted several plans such as:
1. career orientation to graduating students at intermediate level
* Number given as registered members includes the MLTT who obtained the membership but not
continued by paying subscriptions and playing an active role.
Association’s activities are opened for all registered members and students.
Not practical to celebrate BLS day in Sri Lanka as it falls on a national New Year holidays.
(BLS Day falls on April 15 every year. This is the day after the Sinhala & Hindu New year day.
Almost entire country takes holiday these few days to spend with family members and visit parents
and relatives.)
3. Key topics that your association has been working on since GAD 2008
Up to few years ago the Diploma in MLT offered by the Ministry of Health is the recognized and
highest qualification to practice the trade in the island. After so many years of representations and
agitations, the government had taken a policy decision to commence degree programmes at
national universities. Degree programs started at 4 universities. Not a single MLS graduate is out
yet. At the moment the AMLT-SL is working on establishing distance education equalization
programmes so that the diploma holders could upgrade their qualifications to degree level.
Celebration of Golden Jubilee of the pioneer MLT training institute of the island.
The first school of MLT started at the Medical Research Institute, Colombo in 1959 with the
auspices of the WHO (World Health Organization). December 2009 the alumni of the school
celebrated the event with assortment of activities. ( Media publicity, Golden Jubilee publication, an
educational exhibition, scientific meetings, Lecture programmes, & felicitations etc.)
Other Activities
Does your country make trend analysis on the demand for BLSs? ? No
Does your country report the number of BLS’s to the WHO official statistics? ? No
(Usually the dealings with WHO is done by Ministry of Health)
Are there national recommendations on the number of BLS students? If yes, please provide the
number. ? No (This vary. The Ministry of Health decides the number of Diploma
students and the Ministry of Higher Education is the authority of BSc students. At the
moment 130 diploma students and over 150 BSc undergraduates at universities)
Does your country have recruitment plans for BLS students? If yes, what kind of
plans? Yes ( 100% of the Ministry of Health diploma holders are assured employment
in state sector institutions. No plans are available yet for BSc holders when they are out)
Does your country have recommendations for the number of BLS’s in the medical
laboratories? No (Number depends on the work load of the laboratory. Sri Lankan
MLTT are multi-skilled. Private laboratory regulations require a Sri Lanka Medical Council
registered MLT to run a laboratory)
H.D.N.Gunasekara
Past President (AMLT-SL)
Chief Delegate at 29th World Congress
Activities in 2010
James Chang President of TAMT
• BLS Day posters were sent to medical centers, metropolitan hospitals, regional hospitals
and commercial medical laboratories nationwide
• All of medical institutions had booths for promotional activities, advocating the importance
of preventive health examination and cancer marker screening
For celebrating the IFBLS day , we had an activity during April 15 to April 18.
Giving free consultation.
• Colon cancer and other cancer prevention consultation.
• Blood glucose consultation.
• POCT glucometer comparison service.
• Examination report consultation.
Nairobi – Kenya
Contents
Two years ago we were in New Delhi and I honoured the Congress organisers there for the fact that
they had attendances from all over the World at the Congress. What we have learnt at this year’s
Congress in Nairobi is the fact that the 2010 tops the 2008 and have even more nations represented
as delegates and exhibitors. In 2000 I started to be a part of the official delegates from Norway and I
can’t remember that there have been so many Chief delegates present for many years: 30 member
countries are represented and will be forming the IFBLS politics and strategies today. Congratulations
to our organiser AKMLSO for making this possible!
At the moment we have got questions about two collaborating projects: one in Bolivia and one in
Tanzania. Both requests have been addressed to me, and the one from Bolivia wanted to be
connected with the Nordic group, the Tanzania project is about getting a BLS association up and
going in collaboration with the Norwegian association. We will look more into these projects after the
Congress.
As you can see from the documents we have three associations that have applied for membership. In
addition we are in contact with several other associations, groups and individuals and are working
actively to recruit them. Last December we visited the Russian Nurse association and hopefully the
BLS part of the association will be members in IFBLS. We need you and your network to make sure
that we can recruit more members, please be active on this.
Yesterday I was invited to the Kenyan Ministry of Health. Moses Lorre and I attended the meeting with
the Permanent Secretary. We had very fruitful discussions and an initiative for collaboration was
made.
During this Congress we have tried something new, the silent auction. Thank all of you who have
brought very nice items for auction. In total we got in over 800 US dollars and that is very positive. We
have learnt a lot from this experience and will look into the possibility to have a silent auction or an
ordinary auction in 2012.
Yesterday the Management Committee in IFBLS had a though job; to make the decision about the
2012 Congress. We had three very good bids. I thank Singapore, Greece and Germany for their
applications and for being willing to take on arranging the 30th World Congress. We have discussed
the bids in the Council, got them presented at the Open Forum, had meetings with all the three bidders
and several of you have also gave your advices.
On behalf of IFBLS I am happy to say that the 30th World Congress will be in June 2012 in Germany.
Gry Andersen
President IFBLS 2008 – 2010
The Membership Committee has received membership applications from associations and for
individual membership.
The Membership Committee has reviewed three association membership applications for
consideration.
The applications fulfil the requests in IFBLS’ bylaws:
Chad
Greece
United Kingdom
Vote: Unanimous
Vote: Unanimous
Vote: Unanimous
Vote: Unanimous
Vote: Unanimous
Vote: Unanimous
Vote: Unanimous
Vote: Unanimous
Vote: Unanimous
Vote: Unanimous
Vote: Unanimous
Vote: Unanimous
During the last three years IFBLS has been working to revise/update the current Code of Ethics. There
was a need to revise the current Code of Ethics, to reorganise the bullet points according to topics,
and to add new items.
Developing a Code of Ethics is part of building and defining a profession’s identity. The Code of Ethics
functions as a mark of the profession’s maturity.
A Code of Ethics should be tailored to the needs and values of the profession. This means the Code
of Ethics for Biomedical Laboratory Scientists is intended to function as a support and guide for
Biomedical Laboratory Scientists in challenging situations. It is also important to consider the fact that
the Code of Ethics is an assurance for the general public that Biomedical Laboratory Scientists will
practice their professional skills in an ethically responsible manner.
At IFBLS’ Chief Delegate meeting in November 2009 the proposal for the revised Code of Ethics was
presented for discussion. The recommendation from the delegates was that the revision should be
presented to the GAD 2010 for approval.
Following discussion the Council proposed that the wording “mankind” is changed to humanity.
Vote: Unanimous
See IFBLS GAD 2010 Appendix 2 for the revised IFBLS Code of Ethics.
Gry Andersen reviewed the plans to build a framework around the Codes of Ethics; this framework will
help with implementing the codes.
Contents of the framework can for instance be:
• Define to whom the codes apply
• Introduction
• Ethical theory
• Reflections on the development and use of Biomedical laboratory science research and the
role of the Biomedical laboratory scientists
• Reflections on the professional ethical guidelines, including questions for discussion
• Etc
In 2008 members from the International Federation of Biomedical Laboratory Science (IFBLS) and the
European Association for Professions in Biomedical Science (EPBS) took on the task to prepare
guidelines for our members on POCT. Members from the Expert Groups in IFBLS have been active in
this work.
At IFBLS’ Chief Delegate meeting in November 2009 both documents were discussed. The
recommendation from the delegates was that both documents serve an important purpose and should
be presented for the GAD 2010 for approval.
Vote: Unanimous
Vote: Unanimous
See IFBLS GAD 2010 Appendix 3 and 4 for the approved documents.
See IFBLS GAD 2010 Appendix 1 for reports from the Open Forum Working Groups.
Jesper Blomquist (Sweden), supported by Marjo Yrjänheikki (Finland), Kate Schaeffer (USA) and
Lilliann Skaala (Norway), presented the report from the 5th IFBLS Student Forum.
See IFBLS GAD 2010 Appendix 1 for report from the Student Forum.
After the presentation a brief discussion occurred regarding extra content for the curriculum such as
entrepreneurship or communication. The survey will be re-sent, and a summary of the results will
become available on the website in the member’s only section.
191 ballots out of 244 votes in total were available at the GAD. 191 ballots were received and all were
valid.
The following candidates were elected by 2010 GAD Nairobi, Kenya for IFBLS Council 2010 –
2012:
The Chair reported that a presentation of 2012 IFBLS Congress will be made at the Closing
ceremony.
2014 IFBLS Congress: Agreement was signed in 2008 between IFBLS with TSLM and TAMT to co-
host the IFBLS Congress 2014 in Taipei, Taiwan.
Vote: Unanimous
Lena Morgan was given a token of appreciation for her services in IFBLS council as council member
2000 – 2002, President Elect 2002 – 2004, President 2004 – 2006 and Past President 2006 – 2010.
Gry Andersen extended her thanks on behalf of IFBLS Council and members.
We have had five very good days here at the Congress; all the work prior and during this congress has
paid off. Thank you so much to Moses and his crew at the AKMLSO, thanks to the PCOs Paragon and
Liberty. Thank you to the Kenyan government that has supported this Congress. And thank you to all
the other collaborating partners. Germany – I can’t wait to see what you guys will come up with the top
the gala dinner we had on Thursday: the event was fantastic!
Hosting a World Congress in Africa has also opened up for more opportunities to future collaborations
with several other organisations and associations.
Please join me in a warm applause to AKMLSO!
I have been the President since January 2007. I thank you all for your patience and collaboration
during these years. I feel very privilege for the possibilities I have got both personally and
professionally by working together with you.
The years as President has been very demanding; when we started our work IFBLS had a very
unstable economy, we lost members, eight of nine Council members were new in their positions and
the list goes on.
I am very glad to say that this Council together with our member associations have made the
necessary priorities to stabilise the finances, to work on the development for the profession by creating
the e-Journal, the e-learning program, preparing a policy document on POCT, strengthen our code of
ethics, strengthen our collaboration with WHO and others we have MOU with. And we have even
moved forward in our work with the Core Curriculum and Core Competencies.
Congratulations to you all for the well done work!
During these IFBLS meetings we have got new topics to work with and I am sure that the new Council
will dig in!
Gry Andersen
President IFBLS 2008 – 2010
It is customary at this time in the Congress Program for final remarks of the new President. I wish to
express my very best wishes and acknowledgments to all delegates, dignitaries, practitioners,
students, friends, and supporters of IFBLS who have attended and participated in the 29th World
Congress. We have just concluded five successful days of meetings, engagements, discussions, and
most importantly, what I hope has been a time to renew existing friendships amongst colleagues. I
also hope it has been an opportunity to craft new relationships that will continue to develop over the
years to come.
I am honoured and deeply humbled to serve as your new President for the next two years. Much has
been accomplished over the several decades that IFBLS has been in existence representing the
profession of biomedical laboratory science around the world. Many accomplishments have taken
place in both “good times and bad” and would not have been possible without the hard work and
dedication of all of you, members of the IFBLS extended family.
I would especially like to acknowledge Past President Gry Andersen. Thank you, Gry, for your tireless
dedication to IFBLS during the past years of service, especially your efforts to shepherd us through
periods of acute personnel changes and financial difficulties. Through your leadership IFBLS is now a
more secure organization due in part to its much stronger financial position. Please join me in
acknowledging her efforts on behalf of IFBLS, giving her a sign of our gratitude and appreciation.
I also at this time wish to acknowledge all who have previously served as Council members and those
newly elected members of IFBLS Council. I acknowledge your collective hard work and dedication to
the organization. To the newly elected Council, I look forward to working with you during the next two
years as we continue to develop IFBLS into all that we know it can be: the best organization to meet
the needs and demands of the biomedical laboratory profession world-wide. I would also like to
acknowledge at this time the effort of our office administrator Ms Janna Malseed for her tireless efforts
on behalf of IFBLS. She is truly the “force behind the scenes” that helps keep our Management and
Council team on task and focused. Janna, thank you.
We have just concluded a very successful 29th World Congress. On behalf of the IFBLS family, I wish
to express gratitude and appreciation to Mr. Moses Lorre, Local Chairperson, as well as to all
members of the Association of Kenyan Medical Laboratory Science Officers (AKLMSO) and the
numerous individuals who served on all committees that contributed to the success of this Congress
meeting. Having organized several international congresses in the past, I am fully aware that any
endeavour of this size and magnitude does come off easily. The hard work and dedication
demonstrated by this collective group of professionals was clearly evident though out the course of the
Congress. Beginning with all of the many Pre-Congress activities, including the preparation of what
was a superb scientific as well as cultural program, through the many events that were planned and
executed on and off-site, all were pleasurable and rewarding. I am confident that all attendees will
have joyful memories of their time spent here in the Congress Hall, its associated venues, the city of
Nairobi, and the country of Kenya. To all, thank you for “a job well done”.
For those who do not know me, and my relationship to biomedical laboratory science, I’d like to
indulge your patience for a brief capsule summary of my background. I received my basic
undergraduate education and clinical training in “medical technology” in the United States back in the
early 1970’s. After spending several years as a practicing “medical technologist” I grew eager to learn
more about the subject that I found simply “fascinating”, haematology. I was “amazed” at what one
was able to see when peering through the microscope examining that blood smear. It stimulated me to
learn more. I then became aware of a graduate doctorate program in haematology at New York
University Medical Centre so I applied. I was accepted and awarded a research fellowship to study
haematology – specifically in the area of haematopoiesis and stem cell biology. I gave up my “day
job”, as a practicing technologist and began a career as a scientist and researcher. I never forgot my
“roots” in what then was being called “clinical laboratory science.” With my credentials as a research
scientist secure, I began to devote more of my time and energy to clinical laboratory science
education. Since the mid-1980’s I have maintained an active interest in international biomedical
laboratory science education. This still remains the focus of my academic pursuits and interests to this
As for my involvement with IFBLS, I attended my first IFBLS Congress in 2002 in Orlando, Florida and
have attended every Congress meeting since that time. I was elected to Council in 2006 in Seoul,
Korea and have since that time I have worked for the benefit of IFBLS.
I am distinctly aware that as I serve as your President for the next two years, we must continue to
navigate through challenging times. The world is still feeling the effects of the global recession. Global
economies continue to struggle to recover. Many, if not all, of our member countries continue to face
economic challenges. Our particular interest is how to manage limited, even shrinking, resources while
upholding standards of integrity, educating the next generation of professionals and providing better
and more cost effective delivery of our laboratory services.
Please allow me to now share what will be the focus of my attention during the next two years:
(First Goal) I remain dedicated to foster and continue to deliver IFBLS’s Vision and Mission. If you are
not familiar with the Vision and Mission and its Objectives, I encourage all to read it on our website,
www.ifbls.org
(Second Goal) I will enthusiastically promote our IFBLS Code of Ethics and encourage each of you to
rededicate yourself to the code. It is also found on the IFBLS website, and one portion of it reads:
Uphold and maintain the dignity and respect of the profession and strive to maintain a reputation of
honesty, integrity and reliability
(Third Goal) I will continue to work cooperatively and collectively promoting IFBLS with other
associations around the world who share similar goals in the promotion of health care and human
health. Several of these organizations are: WHO, UNESCO, CLSI, and the Global Society for
Nutrition, Environment and Health (GSNEH).
(Fourth Goal) I will work with you to increase the number of member associations to the IFBLS family.
Areas of focus to increase memberships are: South America, the Middle East, and Sub-Sahara Africa.
It is fantastic that several of our former members have now decided to rejoin IFBLS. We
enthusiastically welcome them back to the IFBLS family.
(Fifth Goal) I will continue to strive to elevate the image of biomedical laboratory science and scientists
throughout the world through being as engaged as possible. I hope to be able to visit many
associations – both those that are members and those associations in countries that are not currently
members, and have expressed interest in joining IFBLS.
(Sixth Goal) I will work with you to continue to improve the financial status of IFBLS, in particular by
identifying ways we can successfully establish a secure funding base through the promotion of
sponsorships. We continue to seek ideas from our entire membership. One idea we are trying for the
first time at this Congress is a “Silent Auction”. Council will determine whether this activity is worthy to
continue. Again, we seek your ideas and suggestions to improve the financial status.
(Seventh) We must support our e-Journal. We thank Professor Kao and his colleagues for their
tireless efforts in launching the e-Journal. Please recognize that a journal is only successful if the
membership or audience for which it was created supports it. Thus, I ask all delegates to read the e-
Journal, share it with others, and importantly, contribute to the Journal by submitting your manuscripts
– and encourage your colleagues to do so as well. We look forward with great anticipation to receive
reports at future Congresses documenting the success of our e-Journal.
And finally
(Eighth Goal) We must work cooperatively through our member associations and other professional
accreditation organizations to identify issues related to improving and perhaps standardizing curricula
for educating the biomedical laboratory scientists of the future.
In closing I wish you God speed, safe travels to all whether you are headed home, near or far, or
headed on safari.
I would like to close by leaving you with a list called the Thirteen Things to Remember on a Daily
Basis.
Vincent S. Gallicchio
President IFBLS 2010 – 2012
Appendix 1
Contents
• Payment has been received from Cameroon, Canada, Chile, Croatia, Denmark, Finland, Germany,
Ghana, Hong Kong, Iceland, India (AIIMT), India (AIMLTA), Ireland, Japan, Kenya, Nigeria,
Norway, Philippines, Portugal, Singapore, Spain, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Taiwan (TAMT), Taiwan
(TSML), Uganda and USA
• Payment from Individual Member Saminathan Rathanam has also been received
• Payment has not been received from Bangladesh, Estonia, Fiji and Korea
We have continued to follow up with these countries with respect to their membership
status
• We are pleased to announce we have two new Provisional Members – Chad and Greece
• We are also pleased to announce that the United Kingdom has re-joined IFBLS
• There has been an active Recruitment Program spear headed by Gry Andersen, Vincent
Gallicchio and Janna Malseed
This program will continue in 2011 and 2012 to strengthen IFBLS for the future
Core curriculum
• Proceed the started way
Other ideas
• WHA – let someone from close by Europe attend
• Use a professional lobbyist?
• Collaborate with other organisations like ReAct, to show our standpoint in matters (Antibiotic
over use)
3. What is the policy to deal with National Association’s Journals and IJBLS – Compete or Cooperate?
• Some countries do not have their own journal – IJBLS is a very welcome opportunity
• Those with own journals – some have promised to encourage suitable articles to be submitted
to IJBLS
• Abstracts from articles in IJBLS can be published in national journals – will raise interest and
promote the Journal
• Hope to have a cooperation and not a competition
• Consensus on an international core curriculum will lift up the education globally and develop the
profession to a higher academic level and thereby take higher responsibility for the development
of the science
• The survey is useful because we need to get an overview in order to harmonize the BLS
education globally
• Tool to benchmark our national education
• Learning outcome is more important than the learning hours/per week. Needs to specify the
credits, the hours should be specified as practical training, mandatory lecture etc.
• Establish a consensus regarding number of years and level
• We need to have a credits system that is comparable worldwide
• Have replies from 27 countries, at least 50 countries should answer the survey before the results
are distributed
• IFBLS should work for a statement declaring that no BLS shall be able to graduate from a school
that is not accredited
• Follow up survey related to learning outcome
• We need a standard structure of practical training that covers all the specialties. Duration of
practical training should be measured in credit hours and not in years
• The skill of critical thinking is important and should be included in the education
• We need a standard structure of practical training that covers all the specialties. Duration of
practical training should be measured in credit hours and not in years
• The core curriculum should be standardized to include a few subjects
• Use the competence and experience CSMLS has to evaluate the survey and to prioritise
• Look to what other BLS associations/organisations do
• Follow up with letter to Ministry of Education in member countries and inform about IFBLS work on
Corr Curr and Corr Comp and encourage governments to collaborate with national associations in
developing the BLS education
• Look into other projects like NACCLS to exchange information
3 questions to answer
• What should be included in an international Core Curriculum for BLS?
• Is there need for more information prior to give a recommendation?
• How do the students recommend the continuing process?
• Why do we need an international Core Curriculum?
What do we recommend?
• Student representative
• Send out results of survey, learning objectives for core courses that are collected and look for
further input or responses
• Publish on IFBLS website
The Code of Ethics is a resource for the profession and a support for the individual in everyday
practice and in challenging situations. At the same time they are society’s guarantee that the
Biomedical Laboratory Scientist (BLS) practises the profession in an ethically sound manner.
Duty to colleagues, the profession and other members of the health team
Biomedical Laboratory Scientists shall:
• Uphold and maintain the dignity and respect of the profession and maintain a
reputation of honesty, integrity and reliability
• Continuously improve professional skills and knowledge
• Actively seek to establish cooperative and harmonious working relationships with
other health professionals
• Provide expertise and advise, teach and counsel students, colleagues and other
health professionals
• Be loyal to the policies, laws and legislations which apply to the workplace, as long as
they do not conflict with the professional ethical guidelines
Code of ethics for Biomedical Laboratory Scientists were first adopted by IAMLT in Dublin 1992,
and revised by IFBLS in Nairobi 2010.
IFBLS’ Guidelines regarding Point of Care Testing (POCT)
Point of care testing (POCT) involves collecting specimens and performing biomedical analyses near
the patient. Patient safety and quality assurance are best addressed by virtue of a multi-disciplinary
governance system.
Introduction
Modern healthcare and laboratory medicine constitute elements of a society in continual development.
New medical advances and new technology provide us with new opportunities to meet human needs for
accessible and safe health care. Health care previously requiring prolonged and highly specialised
institutional care can today be performed close to where people live and work in their day-to-day lives
(1).
Point of care testing has an important role to play in the delivery of an efficient healthcare service
because of its ability to provide a rapid test result, in a timely manner, close to the patient. This may
lead to increased clinical effectiveness and improved outcome for patients. However, this is only true if
the result delivered is accurate and reliable.
It is important that where POCT is delivered there is a clearly defined and well structured approach and
robust clinical governance framework, in order to ensure that it is performed in a safe and effective
manner and conforms to acceptable analytical and clinical standards (2).
It is highly recommended that the guidelines drawn up in this document is adopted by those
responsible for POCT.
Biomedical Scientists have the necessary expertise and competence to take a lead role in ensuring
safe and effective governance of POCT. This includes the responsibility for areas such as selection
and validation of equipment, education and training of users, internal and external quality assurance,
maintenance, record keeping of quality and patient data, incident reporting, risk management and
clinical audit, advice and interpretation.
Self testing
Self testing is a laboratory analysis performed in the homes of patients with chronic conditions (e.g.
diabetes), or by individuals in order to screen their own state of health. Such equipment can be
purchased at a chemist or through the Internet. The quality of self testing depends on the precision of
the test, adequate user guidance, an understanding of the analytical procedure involved and knowledge
of how to interpret the result of the analysis (1).
Patient safety
Today, it is a relatively simple and quick process to produce test results using point of care testing. An
essential element of POCT is equipment and methods should be relatively straightforward in order to
achieve a high degree of user friendliness.
It is important to bear in mind that patients depend on accurate and reliable results from POCT devices
to allow for effective diagnosis and monitoring of treatment. Operator competence is essential for
optimal POCT performance.
A central role for laboratory medicine is to provide expertise and resources in order to have overall
governance of quality assurance work within POCT (3).
Use of POCT must be accredited or certified if this is required by national laws and regulations.
All POCT should comply with the requirements of the International Organization for Standardization
(ISO)
ISO 22870 Point-of-care testing (POCT) – Requirements for quality and competence (4).
ISO 15189 Medical laboratories – Particular requirements for quality and competence (5).
ISO 15190 Medical laboratories – Requirements for safety (6).
Policy statement
Biomedical laboratory scientists are responsible for the quality assurance and quality improvement of
all analysis carried out in near-patient areas, and for the evaluation of benefit and resource allocation
in near-patient analysis.
This means biomedical laboratory scientists are responsible for:
• The evaluation and selection of methods and equipment to be used in point of care testing.
• The content of user guidelines (standard operating procedures) and practical training for
users.
• Training and guidance to ensure that methods are carried out and equipment is used in
accordance with approved protocols and to secure patients safety.
• Designing and conforming to internal and external quality control protocols.
• Organising quality systems for all measures surrounding the POCT analysis.
• Protocol for reporting analytical results from POCT analysis.
Consider these elements before introducing point of care testing (8, 9):
The chronological link between test results, quality control results and instrument status must be
retained. Any users of POCT must comply with any relevant standards that may be required under
national and international regulations (10).
Method development
The clinical laboratories are responsible for monitoring national and international developments in the
area of POCT and for disseminating information in respect of these. Change of method must be done in
cooperation between the POCT coordinators on the ward/clinic and the POCT responsible biomedical
scientists at the clinical laboratories.
1. Point of Care Testing. NITO The Norwegian Institute of Biomedical Science. 2. edition, revised
2008.
2. Guidelines for Safe and Effective Management and Use of Point of Care Testing. Approved by the
Academy of Medical Laboratory Science, Association of Clinical Biochemists in Ireland, Irish
Medicines Board and RCPI Faculty of Pathology. November 28, 2007. Ireland
3. Near patient testing activities - a development of the health care process. Vårdförbundet (The
Swedish Association of Health Professionals) and IBL (The Swedish Institute of Biomedical
Laboratory Science), April 2005.
4. ISO 22870:2006 Point-of-care testing (POCT) - Requirements for quality and competence.
5. ISO 15189:2007 Medical laboratories - Particular requirements for quality and competence.
6. ISO 15190:2003 Medical laboratories - Requirements for safety.
7. Australia: Point of Care Testing trial. PoCT in general practice. May 7th, 2009.
http://www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/Content/health-pathology-poctt-index.htm.
8. Rizzottia P, Villanib A. Il caso del Point of Care Testing. Riv Med Lab - JLM, 2004, 5: Suppl. al n. 3.
9. Briedigkeit L, Müller-Plathe O, Schlebusch H, Ziems J. Recommendations of the German Working
Group on Medical Laboratory Testing (AML) on the introduction and quality assurance of
procedures for Point-Of-Care Testing (POCT) in hospitals. Clin Chem Lab Med, 1999, 37: 919-925.
10. Point-of-Care Testing (Near-Patient Testing). Guidance on the Involvement of the Clinical
Laboratory. Institute of Biomedical Science, United Kingdom
Point of care testing (POCT) involves collecting specimens and performing analyses near the patient.
Patient safety and quality assurance are best addressed by virtue of a multi-disciplinary governance
system.
Point of care testing has an important role to play in the delivery of an efficient healthcare service
because of its ability to provide a rapid test result, in a timely manner, close to the patient. This may
lead to increased clinical effectiveness and improved outcome for patients.
It is important that where POCT is delivered there is a clearly defined and well structured approach and
robust clinical governance framework, in order to ensure that it is performed in a safe and effective
manner.
All POCT should comply with the requirements of the International Organization for Standardization
(ISO)
ISO 22870 Point-of-care testing (POCT) – Requirements for quality and competence.
ISO 15189 Medical laboratories – Particular requirements for quality and competence.
ISO 15190 Medical laboratories – Requirements for safety.
Biomedical Scientists have the necessary expertise and competence to take a lead role in ensuring safe
and effective governance of POCT. This includes the responsibility for areas such as selection and
validation of equipment, education and training of users, internal and external quality assurance,
maintenance, record keeping of quality and patient data, incident reporting, risk management and
clinical audit, advice and interpretation.
It is important to bear in mind that patients depend on accurate and reliable results from POCT devices
to allow for effective diagnosis and monitoring of treatment. Operator competence is essential for
optimal POCT performance.
Point of care testing (POCT) involves collecting specimens and performing analyses near the patient.
Patient safety and quality assurance are best addressed by virtue of a multi-disciplinary governance
system.
Point of care testing has an important role to play in the delivery of an efficient healthcare service
because of its ability to provide a rapid test result, in a timely manner, close to the patient. This may
lead to increased clinical effectiveness and improved outcome for patients.
It is important that where POCT is delivered there is a clearly defined and well structured approach and
robust clinical governance framework, in order to ensure that it is performed in a safe and effective
manner.
All POCT should comply with the requirements of the International Organization for Standardization
(ISO)
ISO 22870 Point-of-care testing (POCT) – Requirements for quality and competence.
ISO 15189 Medical laboratories – Particular requirements for quality and competence.
ISO 15190 Medical laboratories – Requirements for safety.
Biomedical Scientists have the necessary expertise and competence to take a lead role in ensuring safe
and effective governance of POCT. This includes the responsibility for areas such as selection and
validation of equipment, education and training of users, internal and external quality assurance,
maintenance, record keeping of quality and patient data, incident reporting, risk management and
clinical audit, advice and interpretation.
It is important to bear in mind that patients depend on accurate and reliable results from POCT devices
to allow for effective diagnosis and monitoring of treatment. Operator competence is essential for
optimal POCT performance.
Present: Vince Gallicchio, Gry Andersen, Kyoko Komatsu, Tom Stowe, Chuan-Liang Kao, Manindra
Chaudhuri, Patrick Joseph Chattad, Mirjana Stupnisek, Janna Malseed
President Vince Gallicchio welcomed the new Council members and congratulated everyone of their
election to Council.
Council received a presentation from the AKMLSO Vice Chair of the Organizing Committee on the
Congress. See Attachment 1.
Past-President Gry Andersen proposed that Tom Stowe be appointed to the Management Committee
for another term of two years as a Member-at-Large.
Seconded by Chuan-Liang Kao
Unanimous
There are two working documents for IFBLS, the By-laws and the Procedure Manual. The By-laws
were given to new Council member Patrick Chattad and Mirjana Stupnisek. Janna Malseed will email
the PM to all Council members which was updated at Congress 2010.
New Council members Mirjana Stupnisek and Patrick Chattad introduced themselves and informed
Council about their background and their future interests.
Discussions regarding task and responsibilities during the next two years:
Patrick – membership recruitment, Scientific Committee, any Committee to do with regulations and
partnership with WHO
Manindra – IDMLSE, education and learning outcomes
Tom – Awards Committee, pamphlets and By-law updates
Kao – eJournal, core curriculum, Scientific Committee, Senior Advisor in TAMIT, ISO
Vince – Core curriculum, CDC
Gry – Finance, Past Presidents Awards, Learning outcomes, Membership fee structure, BLS/Work
Force, WHO (only as an advisor), Kenyan government collaboration
Kyoko – By-laws, eLearning, new guidelines and new subjects for eLearning, accreditation, ISO, WHO,
Expert Group
Janna – By-laws, pamphlets, membership (recruitment), office functions
Gry said the liaison for WHO (Geneva) should be the President
rate and compare costs to attend the cruise compared to costs for a meeting in Canada. Vince
will also see if ASCLS will cover any of his expenses if he is invited to give a presentation.
CD Meeting September 2011 Burlington, Canada or Zagreb, Croatia. Vince will research to
see if there is an opportunity for one of the membership associations to extend an invitation to
host the CD meeting. Mirjana and Janna will research opportunities for this meeting to be held
in Croatia or Canada.
Project Plan
The WHO document was reviewed by Council Members to be submitted to the WHO on July 1,
2010.
Present: Vince Gallicchio, Gry Andersen, Kyoko Komatsu, Tom Stowe, Chuan-Liang Kao, Manindra
Chaudhuri, Patrick Joseph Chattad, Mirjana Stupnisek, Janna Malseed
A proposal from Ireland for a donation to be made to the Kenyatta National Hospital lab was reviewed.
A letter will be drafted requesting donations from IFBLS members. Gry Andersen proposed the
$800.00 from the Silent Auction be used for this donation.
Seconded by Patrick Chattad
Six yes, Two no
(Tom Stowe and Kyoko Komatsu are concerned that the Chief Delegates were informed the money
raised from the Silent Auction was going to be used to fund IFBLS) Other members said that the GAD
decided to support giving financial support and this is, therefore, an IFBLS activity.
Silent Auction
Council agreed to hold an auction at the Congress in Germany in 2012. Gry Andersen proposed it
should be an active auction and Tom Stowe suggested it should be part of the social activity. Gry
agreed to contact Denmark to see if they would run the auction. It is recommended that a letter be sent
to members to let them know about the auction and recruit for volunteers to help with it. The Germany
association and the PCO will be advised that we will be holding an auction and that there will be no cost
to them.
Student Forum
There was a discussion on the number of students who attended the Congress. A letter should be sent
to member associations to encourage them to bring students to future Congresses.
The relationship between IFBLS and ASCPi was discussed. It was agreed there should be a MOU
between the two organizations or ASCPi should become a member of IFBLS. Vince Gallicchio agreed
to speak with the Executive Director of ASCPi to encourage them to become a member of IFBLS
representing BLS members in ASCPi. It was also recommended that we investigate what kind of
collaboration we can work with them. Council members were requested to provide the pros and cons of
ASCPi and the Management Committee will review them. Vince Gallicchio will contact ASCPi to
request their views on membership in IFBLS
Finance – Vince, Gry, Awards –Tom, Kyoko, Patrick, Membership – Manindra, Patrick, Mirjana,
Kyoko and Tom Janna Janna
Regulation – Gry. Tom, Education – Gry, Kyoko, Vince, • CLSI Liaison - Eddie
Patrick, Mirjana Kao, Mirjana, Manindra • CDC Liaison – Vince
• Membership at Large - Dionysis
• UNESCO, ASCPi Liaison -Vince
• WHO International - Gry
• WHO Asia - Manindra and Eddie
• WHO Europe - Gry
• WHO Americas – Vince
Scientific
Expert Group – Kyoko
eJournal – Kao
eLearning - Kyoko
A time line project management worksheet will be created to plan deadlines for projects.
There was a discussion on the action plan for Congress fees and expenses payment to IFBLS. An
invoice will be prepared and sent to AKMLSO for Council flights to be paid within 14 days and an
invoice for Congress fees will be sent to AKMLSO to be paid by August 31, 2010. If payment is not
received by these dates, this becomes an issue for the Regulation Committee.